All of us will have our own special memories of this amazing man, who achieved the equivalent of at least ten men in his lifetime.

He was an Author, Sailor, Scientist (NASA), Doctor, Theorist, Politician, Knight and all round good guy.

In 2000 he was the named the Pacific Person of the Century. Played a significant role in the revival of the voyaging sailing canoes.

The sharing of his knowledge and skills was invaluable to those who had the privileged to be part of his crew and those who attended his lectures.

Papa Tom celebrated his 90th birthday recently at the Rarotonga Sailing Club, a fitting venue for the Master Mariner.

Since late last year he has been living back amongst his friends and extended family over in Rarotonga.

Go in peace, Papa Tom, secure in the knowledge that you surely did make a difference to so many during your life time.